HL Deb 20 March 1974 vol 350 c229
LORD MERTHYR

My Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.

The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they consider that the time has now arrived when Peers should have a vote at Parliamentary Elections.

THE LORD PRIVY SEAL (LORD SHEPHERD)

My Lords, the Government incline to this view; but any legislation on the matter will have to await its opportunity.

LORD SWAYTHLING

My Lords, it is said that there should be no taxation without representation. As your Lordships have no vote for the House of Commons and are not allowed to move Amendments on financial matters, do the Government agree that your Lordships should not be subject to any direct taxation?

LORD SHEPHERD

My Lords, I think that that is a matter for another place.

LORD SUDELEY

My Lords, may I ask the Minister whether he would not agree that the sanctity of the elective principle implied in this Question is a matter of doctrine, and that we do well, therefore, to preserve the mixed Constitution?

LORD SHEPHERD

My Lords, I will take note of what the noble Lord has said.

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